How does humidity affect HVAC system performance?

High humidity levels can decrease cooling efficiency and indoor comfort levels due to the way humid air holds heat and moisture. When humidity is high, the air feels warmer than it actually is, which can lead to discomfort for occupants. Additionally, HVAC systems rely on dehumidification to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. When humidity is elevated, the system has to work harder to remove moisture from the air, which can lead to increased energy consumption and reduced overall efficiency. This increased workload can also lead to strain on the system components, potentially resulting in more frequent maintenance issues or system failure. Therefore, managing humidity is critical to ensuring both the efficiency of cooling operations and the comfort of the indoor environment.